GORTER RETIRES, PLANS NEW CAREER AS AN AGENT

Edwin Gorter, who helped take the Fusion to the playoffs with leadership and crafty playmaking, announced his retirement Wednesday.

Gorter, 36, who spent the past two seasons in Major League Soccer with the New England Revolution and Fusion, plans to stay involved in soccer as an agent.

"I've played my entire career with the number 10 on my back and the Fusion was my 10th team, so maybe it's a sign to hang up the boots," Gorter said. "After 20 years playing soccer, it's time to do something else."

Gorter, a native of Holland, played for the Revolution for more than a season before being traded to the Fusion in June. He ends his MLS career with 11 goals and eight assists in 49 regular season matches. Prior to joining MLS, Gorter recorded 131 goals in 432 career first-division matches in Europe. He was regarded as one of the top central midfielders in Holland.

"He was one of the best professionals I have worked with," Fusion coach Ivo Wortmann said.

"He was very important for us making the playoffs. He brought experience and leadership that helped the young players. We'll miss him."

With Gorter in the lineup, the Fusion went 9-6. His first point for the Fusion was a dramatic winning goal against the MetroStars in July.

After missing two games with a knee injury, Gorter scored two goals and added an assist in a 4-1 victory over Columbus. His five points were a Fusion season high for an individual.

Gorter will keep an office in Belgium in order to remain close with his wife and two children. He plans to concentrate his business efforts in the United States, Italy and Switzerland.